American scientist who was the "K" in K-Rations. Born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the nephew of actor Lon Chaney, he grew up in Berkeley, California and demonstrated an inclination for science early in life. He studied the influence of diet on health and realized that different kinds of dietary fat had different effects on health. His studies eventually resulted in substantial changes in the U.S. diet and a downward trend in cardio-vascular disease. His influence on dietary science caused him to be featured on the cover of the issue of Time. In addition to his role in establishing modern cardiovascular disease epidemiology, he was closely associated with two famous "diets," one distained by soldiers and the other beloved by health-conscious diners wanting tasty food. As an advisor to the U.S. Department of Defense during World War II, he developed balanced meals for combat soldiers in the field that became known as "K" rations. Later with his wife, Margaret, he popularized the Mediterranean diet. (bio by: Fred Beisser)